University College Dublin today conferred honorary degrees upon 19 Irish luminaries as part of the celebrations to mark the institution's 150 thanniversary.
RTE journalist Charlie Bird who received an honorary degree at UCD today
Among those to receive degrees was charity campaigner Christina Noble, former footballer Kevin Moran, entertainer Michael Flatley and RTÉ journalist Charlie Bird.
The University cited them for their "exceptional contribution to Irish society and their impact on the world stage".
Also included were businessman and philanthropist Lochlann Quinn, former European Commissioner David Byrne, journalist Niall O'Dowd and former US congressman Bruce Morrison.
In the sporting arena, Mr Moran was joined by the former Kerry footballer Mick O'Dwyer, former Dublin footballer Kevin Heffernan and retired Irish rugby international Willie John McBride.
Those recognised for their contribution to the arts included Mr Flatley, as well as sculptor Imogen Stuart, chairwoman of the Abbey Theatre, Eithne Healy, and artist Anne Madden.
The university said the awards placed a strong value on achievement outside the academic sphere.